CONCLUSION
The F116 Pro by FOSSiBOT is a compact rugged smartphone that punches above its size. With the Dimensity 7300, 12GB RAM, 256GB storage, and 5G, it stays fast and responsive while its daytime camera performance (especially the 48MP ultra-wide one) is genuinely good for a rugged device. The 4‑inch 120Hz screen is crisp, the ear speaker delivers clear call quality, battery can easily last for 4-5 days (depends on use) and the rugged certifications make it a dependable field companion. What really elevates it, though, is how naturally it fits into an action‑camera workflow, the built‑in 1/4" mount point works seamlessly with QR mounts, suction mounts, neck mounts, and other action‑camera accessories (most of which are also available from FOSSiBOT), letting you use the phone as a stabilized POV recorder, a compact vlogging unit, or a mounted work‑site camera. Combined with the three-color options, it becomes a versatile tool that adapts to filming, documenting, and on‑site tasks. Its limitations are tied directly to its size. The screen is relatively small, making typing uncomfortable (especially if your fingers are large/thick, which eventually leads to mistakes), fonts feel cramped, and enlarging them only reduces usable space and makes the interface harder to navigate. It’s a device that excels in portability and toughness, but sacrifices typing comfort and UI readability. Where it shines most is as a secondary rugged phone. Even if you already have a main smartphone, the FOSSiBOT F116 Pro works beautifully as a dedicated action‑camera unit, a work‑site recorder, or a mount‑ready companion you can attach anywhere without worrying about damage. It’s tough, fast, and mount‑friendly, a compact device that earns its place next to your primary phone.
The FOSSiBOT F116 Pro currently retails for USD369.99 inside the USA (Amazon.com) and for 457.45Euros inside the EU (Amazon.de) and so it’s priced quite higher that what I had expected, especially on this side of the Atlantic. Cost aside however this is a compact rugged smartphone that will probably outlast regular models with ease. Yes, it may not be the fastest smartphone out there and the small screen is something that needs getting used to but overall, it delivers as advertised and that’s why it gets the Golden Award.
PROS
- Very Good Build Quality (Rugged)
- Mediatek Dimensity 7300 (Overall Performance)
- 4” IPS Incell 120Hz Screen
- IP68, IP69K, and MIL‑STD‑810H Certified
- 12GB RAM (Expandable To 36GB Virtual)
- 256GB Storage (+1TB Via MicroSD)
- 32MP Front / 50MP Primary Rear Camera / 48MP OIS 152.6°
- 3700mAh Battery
- Available OS Features
- Available Colors (Grey Black / Orange Black / Green Black)
CONS
- Night Camera Performance
- Price (For Some)
- Small Screen (For Some)
